Living

Best ways to explore Charleston

Charleston, S.C., is one of the biggest tourist destinations in the South. It’s a city full of grace and charm. With cobble stone streets and refreshing sea breezes, it’s hard to beat the Holy City, nicknamed for the large amount of steeples that tower over the city.

What to do:
From majestic plantations to national monuments, you can find history around every corner.

Consider spending the day touring historic Boone Hall and then relax under the plantation’s regal oaks swaying in the wind.

Or stroll through the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, named one of America’s Most Beautiful Gardens by Travel and Leisure. The plantation is the oldest public tourist site in the Lowcountry, and the oldest public gardens in America, opening its doors to visitors in 1870.

You can also visit Drayton Hall Plantation, an incredible estate that was built in 1738 and has survived an earthquake, fire and two wars.

Take a boat tour over to Fort Sumter to see where the first shots of the Civil War rang out.

Want a quick history lesson without leaving historic downtown? You can always take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the city and hear about its architecture and incredible past.

We’d also suggest taking a walking ghost tour. From pirates and dungeons to America’s first female serial killer, the beautiful city’s dark past might just surprise you.

Be sure to take in the harbor views on Waterfront Park's porch swings then meander through The Battery and Rainbow Row to see some of the most exquisite Southern homes.

Where to eat:

In a city well known for its food, it’d be hard to go wrong no matter where you went, but we’ve highlighted a few restaurants that are sure to impress.

If you’re in the mood to start the morning off with a quick bite to eat before sightseeing, drop into Blacktap Coffee for a banana nutella turnover that is out of this world delicious.

Have more time for a hearty breakfast or lunch? Enjoy traditional Southern dishes like biscuits and gravy or country ham and eggs at Virginia’s On King. Or enjoy a leisurely brunch at Cannon Green which offers delectable dishes including lavender French toast and fried green tomatoes with green garlic aioli. Another popular brunch option is Hominy Grill’s Lowcountry omelet with Charleston red rice, shrimp gravy, home fries and toast.

Snack time. Boiled peanuts are a South Carolina staple and we’d suggest making a pit stop at The Peanut Dude for a bag of Cajun flavored! The Peanut Dude sets up shop all over so keep an eye out for his logo of a cartoon peanut giving the peace sign.

Happy Hour! Stop by Republic for a sip or two of their Picket Fence cocktail, possibly the most refreshing drink ever created. It’s made with honeysuckle vodka, elderflower cordial, cucumber and soda. O-Ku also offers a wide range of signature drinks, but their freshly made and favorable sangria’s are extremely noteworthy. Grab a brew at Vendue’s rooftop bar around sunset to take in panoramic views of the harbor and city.

Choosing a place to eat dinner in the Holy City may be one of the hardest decisions you’ll ever have to make on vacation!

Want an entrée mixed with a little spook? Dine at Poogan’s Porch for dishes like pan seared sea scallops and sweet tea glazed salmon and the chance to see the resident ghost, who is said to haunt the upstairs bathroom.

Centrally located in historic downtown Charleston, Husk prides itself on using the freshest local ingredients and stands behind the idea that if it doesn’t come from the South, it’s not coming through the door. Because they use such particular ingredients the menu consistently changes, so as many times as you go, it will never get old.

If you go to Slightly North of Broad, get the shrimp and grits, you won’t be disappointed.

Call ahead for reservations if you know when you'll be visiting, some of these places can book up weeks in advance. 

Where to shop:

King Street offers everything from monogram shops and high-end fashion stores to local boutiques with one-of-a-kind pieces.

The Charleston Market built in 1804, carries everything from sweet grass baskets created by local artists to handmade candles. It’s the perfect place to pick up a memorable souvenir or gift.

Where to stay:

Planters Inn is right across from the Charleston Market, putting guests right in the heart of downtown. It’s also been named No. 1 Best Small City Hotel in the continental U.S. by Travel and Leisure.

Set in a private landscaped courtyard enclave, the exclusive boutique hotel, Zero George, is the epitome of opulence with impeccable service and world class food.

Want a retreat instead of staying downtown? The Cottages at Charleston Harbor are beautifully arranged just yards from the water's edge and boast breathtaking views of the harbor. They specialize in personal one-on-one concierge service and will assist in making dinner, tour, golf or transportation reservations to make your stay as seamless as possible.